Nip And Tuck

Wolves’ win at Bradford earlier in the season was a very tight affair, with a couple of Carl Ikeme saves proving vital in the 2-1 victory.

And Head Coach Kenny Jackett expects another tight battle at Molineux tomorrow despite the Bantams’ recent dip in form.

“It was a great game at Bradford where we edged it by a solitary goal,” says Jackett.

“It was nip and tuck and could have gone either way.

“Carl Ikeme pulled off two great saves from Nahki Wells in the second half which kept us in front.

“They have taken a few loan players – Bennett got sent off last week so won’t be able to play – but also Atkinson, Adam Reach, McLean.

“So the side will have changed by three, four or five players to the one that we played last time.

“They have probably spent half the season having top six aspirations and were very well placed.

“I am sure now they will try to get back on track and make a late push for the play-offs because they are a genuinely big club.

“When you look at attendances, Bradford, Sheffield United and Bristol City are teams which get very good crowds particularly when they get going at the top end of this league.

“McLean and Hanson up front, Adam Reach on the left wing, Thompson...they will have their strengths as well as two very consistent midfield players in Jones and Doyle that keep going at all times at all stages.

“It’s a big game for them as it is for any team coming to Molineux.”

But having assessed the opposition, Jackett will then be firmly focused on what Wolves produce, and in particular continuing the good form which has seen the team post three successive victories.

“First and foremost we have to keep passing the ball and keep playing,” he added.

“We have talked about working the opposition keeper more for the possession we have had and

"I was pleased on Tuesday that we did that – we not only scored three goals but also hit the crossbar and their keeper made some outstanding saves.

“We have to continually try and do that and find the balance between keeping control of the game and passing the ball to working the opposition keeper.”

Dave Edwards (foot) is still sidlelined tomorrow but fit-again Matt Doherty is again in the squad and trying to break into what has been a settled back four in recent weeks.

“Matt is ok and his hamstring is fine now.” said Jackett.

“In terms of match practice he is ready and looking and pushing for a first team recall.

“We have had a settled back four but he is there and wants to be involved and get onto the next stage of getting back into the side after a long spell out with a hamstring injury.

“It is not easy to get into our back four at the moment as there is very good competition.”